Home Footing Drain Disconnection Program Underway
A yearlong study determined that during heavy rainstorms, excessive amounts of rainfall are directed into the sanitary sewer system via home footing drains, which then contributes to the system backing up into basements. It was learned that one of the least expensive and most effective means to address this problem would be to disconnect home footing drains as this would lessen the amount of storm water entering the City sanitary sewer system.
Ann Arbor City Council approved a City ordinance which provides funding for a citywide footing drain disconnection process, with defined eligibility standards. Implementation will follow a systematic schedule designed to provide protection first to those homes most at risk. Neighborhood meetings will be held in eachÂ
area to answer homeowner questions and share detailed information on the disconnection process and covered costs of the program. Eventually, it is anticipated that footing drains throughout the community will be addressed.
For a review of information regarding the program and the proposed implementation schedule, please visit the project website or the reference desk at your local library.